Occupying prime real estate in the center of the piazzetta, Chuflay Bar & Restaurant at Splendido Mare flaunts a sophisticated ambience, serving terrific regional dishes. Dressed in crisp white uniforms, waiters offer menu suggestions and wine pairing recommendations. Menu items consist of classics with a regional twist like stuffed mussels and pesto gnocchi. The restaurant has several indoor linen-clothed tables that spill out onto the restaurant’s outdoor patio in the center of the port’s bustling piazzetta, making it an ideal spot for people watching. In the evening, Chuflay guests can enjoy a digestivo at the bar while listening to the nightly pianist’s rendition of worldly classics that carry throughout the harbor, luring guests in until after midnight each evening.

A hidden gem tucked in a narrow alleyway just behind Portofino’s Piazzetta, Da U Batti specializes in fresh local seafood, in a traditional and friendly atmosphere. Offering a mix of seafood and Italian regional specialites, Da U Batti boasts exquisite, flavorful dishes along with an extensive wine list. The legendary Scampi alla Batti is not to be missed, as the fresh scampi are served in a 50-year-old-secret-recipe sauce that is full of flavor– a must try for any first-time visitor.

Located at the Belmond Hotel Splendido, this cliffside restaurant offers spectacular views of the port below. The traditional Italian fare focuses on seafood. Culinary standouts include the seafood salad drizzled with lemon and the tomato and basil laden Spaghetti alla Elizabeth Taylor (a nod to some past celebrity clientele.) In addition to the delicious food and breathtaking view, the service is excellent and the kind staff eagerly shares recommendations and anecdotes. Guests can either dine alfresco on the terrace or in the more formal dining room.

Cheerful service, a casual atmosphere and delicious Italian pizza make da Nicola perfect for those ready to take a break from the more decadent Italian entrees. The restaurant makes a great lunch or dinner option for families with kids.

Located just next door to Chuflay is the well-known Ristorante Puny, one of the most classic dining spots on the harbor where friendly Italian hospitality and an elite jet-set crowd wine and dine informally in the center of the port. The restaurant, like most in Portofino, specializes in Ligurian seafood dishes. Not to be missed is the risotto with prawns and curry and the fresh fish catch baked in salt. For first timers, the Papparadelle al Portofino is a scrumptious introduction to Ligurian pesto, perfectly blended with tomato. The incredible dishes and the stunning scenery make Puny a great spot for lunch or dinner.